Rubber

Definition

The term "rubber" describes an elastic material derived from natural or synthetic sources, commonly used for making tires, gloves, and erasers.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈrʌb.ɚ/
• Respelling: RUB-er

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈrʌb.ə/
• Respelling: RUB-uh

Etymology

The word "rubber" originates from the early 17th century, from "rub," due to its initial use as a material for rubbing out pencil marks. It later came to describe the elastic material derived from latex or synthetic sources.

Derivatives

• Rubberize (verb)
• Rubberization (noun)
• Rubberiness (noun)
• Nonrubber (noun, adjective)
• Rubberless (adjective)

Synonyms

• Elastomer
• Eraser
• Latex

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "rubber" is used in various contexts, such as manufacturing, stationery, and sports. For example, "The car's tires are made of durable rubber" (noun, material) or "The gloves have a rubber coating for better grip" (adjective).

Related Terms

• Elastomer: A polymer with elastic properties.
• Resin: A natural or synthetic compound used in similar applications as rubber.
• Vulcanization: The process of treating rubber to improve its durability.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An elastic material derived from latex: Refers to the flexible substance used in various products.
  • Example: "Natural rubber is harvested from rubber trees."
• A small eraser for pencil marks: Refers to a stationery item commonly used in writing.
  • Example: "He used a rubber to erase his mistakes."
• A term for tires (informal): Refers to the vehicle tires made of rubber.
  • Example: "The racecar needed new rubbers after the practice run."

Adjective

• Made of or coated with rubber: Describes items that include rubber as a material.
  • Example: "The boots have a rubber sole for waterproofing."
• Elastic or flexible in nature: Refers to something resembling the properties of rubber.
  • Example: "The material used in the design is highly rubber in nature."